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How does the air bag supplemental restraint system work?
The air bag SRS is designed to
activate when the vehicle sustains
sufficient longitudinal deceleration.
The fact that the air bags did not
inflate in a collision does not mean
that something is wrong with the
system. Rather, it means the forces
were not of the type sufficient to
cause activation. Air bags are
designed to inflate in frontal and
near-frontal collisions, not rollover,
side-impact, or rear-impacts.
The air bags inflate and deflate
rapidly upon activation. After air bag
deployment, it is normal to notice a
smoke-like, powdery residue or
smell the burnt propellant. This may
consist of cornstarch, talcum
powder (to lubricate the bag) or
sodium compounds (e.g., baking
soda) that result from the
combustion process that inflates the
air bag. Small amounts of sodium
hydroxide may be present which
may irritate the skin and eyes, but
none of the residue is toxic.
While the system is designed to help
reduce serious injuries, it may also
cause minor abrasions, swelling or temporary hearing loss. Because air bags
must inflate rapidly and with considerable force, there is the risk of death or
serious injuries such as fractures, facial and eye injuries or internal injuries,
particularly to occupants who are not properly restrained or are otherwise
out of position at the time of air bag deployment. Thus, it is extremely
important that occupants be properly restrained as far away from the air bag
module as possible while maintaining vehicle control.
Several air bag system components get hot after inflation. Do not
touch them after inflation.
Seating and Safety Restraints
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